The new Quinnipiac University poll finds former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton leading Christie, 46-38, in a hypothetical 2016 presidential matchup. That's a swing of 7 points from a month ago.

But more disconcerting for Christie are the peripheral numbers. By a 35-36 split, most voters now do not think Christie would make a good president. That's down from a 49-31 split in November in which voters leaned toward viewing him as a potentially good president, as he cruised to a landslide re-election victory.

The "Bridgegate" scandal also looks like one that has already made a dent in the American public's consciousness. Overall, 73% say they have heard of the burgeoning scandal that has led to two separate investigations. Of that group, 50% say the scandal damages his 2016 hopes, while 39% say it won't make a difference.

Thirty-four percent of respondents say they are now less likely to vote for Christie in 2016, compared with 56% who say the controversy won't affect their vote.